Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage, but not sure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Peter Sanagan, owner at Sanagan's Meat Locker based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Tell us all about your business...
Sanagan’s Meat Locker is a full-service butcher shop specializing in quality meats, poultry, and foodstuffs sourced exclusively from Ontario family farms. Attentive, educated, and customized service is part of our mission to become your favorite butcher shop in Toronto.
What's your background and motivation to grow as a solopreneur?
I love food. In my twenty-five years in the food industry, I have had the opportunity to work with excellent products worldwide. Truffles from Italy, melons from France, shrimp from Spain; all delicious and unique. However, I genuinely believe that the best meat in the world is from animals raised right here in Ontario. Our dynamic climate, rich farmland, and acceptance of diverse farming techniques introduced by new Canadians allow us to produce strong, healthy, and flavorful animals. Our traditions in the meat industry have won us favor all over the world, and I am proud to be one small link in that chain.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I have been fortunate to have many accomplishments, from opening more stores to writing a cookbook. I think my most outstanding achievement, though, is being happy in my career, doing what I love, surrounded by like-minded people.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a solopreneur?
Knowing that the buck stops with you. I am lucky to have many people supporting me and lending advice, but at the end of the day, you are responsible for the successes and failures of the business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Talk to fellow business people who are doing something similar to what you want to do.
- Learn how to make quick decisions, and don't second guess yourself too much.
- Learn to rely on and trust people who work for you. It would be best if you had their support and loyalty.
Where can people find you?
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.